As people look to green jobs to help an ailing economy and
planet, colleges and universities nationwide are scrambling to keep up
with the demand for environmental majors and
minors from students and potential employers looking for skilled
workers.
USA Today reports that more than 100 majors, minors or certificates
in energy and sustainability-focused programs were created in 2009 at
places of higher learning. Compare that to 2005, when only three
programs were added, according to the Association for the
Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
The Obama administration estimated that jobs in energy and
environmental fields will grow 52 percent from 2000 to 2016, compared
to 14 percent for other occupations, the paper reported.
In Northern Nevada, the University of Nevada, Reno
added a renewable energy minor in 2008, with a working geothermal lab
underway. Truckee Meadows Community College also started a
renewable energy program recently, including a working solar lab, and
its courses are regularly full.